The eastern Pacific Ocean is experiencing a notably busy hurricane season, and this activity intensified over the weekend as the National Hurricane Center (NHC) added a third area to monitor for potential tropical development. Currently, two clusters of thunderstorms are expected to evolve into the next named storms, but it remains uncertain which will take on the name Barbara.
On Friday, the NHC designated these two clusters of developing thunderstorms as “invests.” The first cluster, further from the southwestern Mexican coast, was classified as Invest 91E, while the second, closer to land, was tagged as Invest 92E. The designation of “invest” indicates that intensive forecasting and data modeling is underway to assess these systems.
Invest 91E is predicted to rapidly develop, with a 70% chance of becoming a tropical depression over the weekend as it moves northwestward. Forecasters anticipate that it could form into a more organized system within a few days. On the other hand, Invest 92E is projected to have a significant impact on the southwestern coast of Mexico, particularly with heavy rainfall and high surf, as it carries a 90% chance of development this weekend.
In addition, the NHC identified a new area of concern on Saturday morning, which is forecasted to develop into low pressure late next week near southern Mexico. While environmental conditions are conducive for gradual development, its chances remain low for the coming week.
The uptick in tropical activity coincides with the beginning of hurricane season on May 15. Notably, Tropical Storm Alvin occurred last week but dissipated shortly thereafter, signaling how quickly the weather can shift in this region.
This active hurricane season serves as a reminder of the importance of preparedness and monitoring developments as they unfold. Residents along the coasts should stay updated with the latest forecasts and take necessary precautions if conditions worsen. With advanced computer models and specialized datasets at their disposal, meteorologists are better equipped to track these developing systems and provide timely information to the public.